President Thabo Mbeki Offers Condolences to Government of Saudi Arabia

Tshwane - South African President Thabo Mbeki today, Monday 1 August 2005, conveyed on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, his deepest condolences to Crown Prince Abdullah, the government and people of Saudi Arabia, on the passing away of King Fahad bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.

President Mbeki said, "It was with tremendous sadness that I received the news that King Fahad bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, had passed away. The King had been a good friend of the Government and the people of South Africa and we all mourn his passing with our brothers and sisters in Saudi Arabia.

"Your Royal Highness, our thoughts and prayers and with you, your Government, and people of Saudi Arabia during this time of national mourning," concluded President Thabo Mbeki.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
1 August 2005